Ligustrum Delavayanum

This small-leaved privet is an excellent substitute for box topiary, avoiding all the pitfalls of box blight and box moth caterpillar. Fast-growing, and readily branching, it tolerates regular clipping and can easily be trained into dense, topiary shapes. Semi-evergreen, Ligustrum delavayanum may lose some leaves in very cold winters but will quickly re-foliate in the spring.

These stylish, lollipop half-standards come with clear stems and make elegant focal points for framing architectural features such as doorways. Once established, Ligustrum delavayanum is relatively drought tolerant and so makes a good choice for larger patio pots. The small, glossy leaves are accompanied by white fragrant flowers in late summer followed by black berries in autumn, although regular trimming will reduce the production of flowers and fruit.